Cheap Flights to Mthatha from HK$1,677

Wherever you're coming from, flying can be a pleasurable experience if you're prepared. Take a peek at these handy tips and tricks that will help get your Mthatha escape started on the right note. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• Firstly, and most importantly, put in your passport, travel docs, credit cards and vital medications. Next, you'll need some entertainment to while away the hours. A juicy book and a laptop crammed with your favourite shows are some terrific options. If you plan to catch forty winks, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs will also come in handy. Finally, leave some space for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination looking fresh and raring to go.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Pack all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated. Pointed or sharp objects, like a Swiss Army knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, flares and strong acids, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to go for comfort over style. Prepare for changes in temperature by dressing in layers, and wear slightly roomy, flat shoes like sneakers.
• Caused by sustained periods of inactivity, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot condition that can affect passengers during long-haul flights. Lower your risks by drinking water, keeping your legs and ankles moving and wearing compression socks to help your circulation.

A little pre-planning before you get to the airport will help make your trip to Mthatha quick and painless. Read through our handy tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Your boarding pass and travel ID will need to be shown to security personnel. Keep them someplace accessible so you don't have to dig around for them.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Items such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also need to go on a tray for inspection. Don't worry though, you'll be back online soon enough.
• Any liquids or gels, such as shampoo or hairspray, that you want to take on board must be no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). They must also all fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• The right choice of footwear can save you several valuable minutes. Boots and heavy shoes are often required to be removed and separately scanned. Slip-on shoes are usually not.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are not allowed in the cabin. They'll be seized at security, so put them in your checked bags.